Black Adam

Black Adam is a DC Comics villain, often a rival of Captain Marvel (DC Comics).

Powers

When he speaks the word of power "Shazam," Theo Adam is gifted with the stamina of Shu, the swiftness of Heru, the strength of Amon, the wisdom of Zehuti, the power of Aton, and the courage of Mehen.

History

In ancient Egypt, the time of the pharaoh, the wizard Shazam chose Teth-Adam to become the land's protector. He told him that "Shazam" would be his word of power, granting him great powers, derived from the attributes of Egypt's gods. Rather than follow Shazam, Teth-Adam used his powers for evil. When Shazam revoked his power, Teth-Adam died.

Centuries later, Theo Adam murdered the Batsons for a mystic scarab found in the tomb of Teth-Adam. He discovered its secrets, and by saying "Shazam," Theo received the power of his ancestor, and used it to battle Shazam's latest champion, Captain Marvel (who wore a red version of Black Adam's outfit with a white cape).

Through various plot twists, Black Adam joined the Justice Society of America (under Captain Marvel's watchful eye), turned on the JSA, joined the Injustice Society of America, turned on them, and eventually took control of the Middle East nation of Khandaq.